Replacing an AC capacitor costs around $180 for a typical home system, though prices can range from about $100 for a small condo to $400 or more for larger homes.
The biggest cost factor is your AC unit’s size and type — larger homes with premium AC brands like Trane or Carrier generally need more expensive capacitors.
A capacitor’s job is crucial; it provides the electrical charge needed to start and run your AC’s motors and compressor. Most AC units have multiple capacitors, and any one of them can go out and cause a problem. A failing capacitor often leads to your AC running poorly or not at all, which can leave you without cooling when you need it most.
With proper maintenance, most capacitors last 10-15 years, but factors like heat exposure and power fluctuations can cause early failure.
If your AC system is over 10 years old or has frequent capacitor issues, you could consider a full system replacement instead of just swapping out the capacitor. Newer systems offer significantly better energy efficiency and reliability. However, capacitors are relatively inexpensive and replacing a dead one can extend the life of your HVAC.
In this guide, we’ll help you understand your options and costs, backed by data from leading HVAC contractors and construction cost databases.
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
Are things heating up inside your home this summer? Check out this video with tips to keep your home cool.
Average Cost to Replace an AC Capacitor
AC capacitor replacement cost varies based on several factors, but the national average is around $180. Typically, homeowners can expect to spend between $100 and $400 for air conditioner capacitor replacement from a professional HVAC technician during a preventative maintenance visit.
| AC Capacitor Cost | |
| Average Cost | $180 |
| Highest Cost | $400 |
| Lowest Cost | $100 |
How Do Costs Differ By AC Capacitor Size?
AC capacitor costs vary by capacitor unit size. Larger homes have bigger air conditioning units, which need larger, more expensive capacitors. Here’s a breakdown of the cost of an AC capacitor by the size of a home:
| AC Capacitor Type | Cost |
| Small condo/apartment | $100 – $120 |
| Average single-family home | $175 – $350 |
| Large home (2,500+ square feet) | $200 – $400 |
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How Does HVAC Unit Type Affect AC Capacitor Pricing?
AC capacitor cost also varies by the type of heating or air conditioning unit. HVAC units require different types and sizes of AC capacitors, and some capacitors are more difficult to access.
Here’s a breakdown of the cost of an AC capacitor by HVAC unit type:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost |
| Air Handler | $100 – $140 |
| Condensing Unit (A/C) | $120 – $375 |
| Condensing Unit (Heat Pump) | $140 – $385 |
| Gas Furnace | $100 – $120 |
| Packaged (All-in-One) Unit | $140 – $400 |
Modern air conditioning systems typically use three types of capacitors working together: single capacitors that power individual components, dual capacitors that run multiple parts at once, and start capacitors that help get everything moving.
Residential air handlers typically feature run capacitors for fan blower motors. Gas furnaces also commonly contain run capacitors for fan blower motors and inducer fan motors (used only in heating mode). Condensing units (AC and heat pump types) frequently use dual-run capacitors to reduce the necessary space for electrical components within the outdoor unit. Packaged (all-in-one) units may contain a combination of single and dual capacitors to operate with the compressor and multiple motors within the system.
When an HVAC pro comes out to inspect a faulty AC, your technician will test each capacitor to identify which one is failing and recommend the right replacement part for your system.
To plan and budget AC capacitor replacement costs, ask your HVAC professional to identify and quote each capacitor in your system during a heating and air conditioning maintenance visit or service call. Pricing may increase in the future, but getting a current cost estimate will give you a decent baseline to keep in mind.
What Other Factors Can Impact AC Capacitor Cost Estimates?
While we’ve covered the main factors in your AC capacitor replacement cost, other minor differences can come into play as well.
Unit Location & Service Access
Where your AC unit is located can significantly affect replacement costs. Easy-to-access units, like those on the ground level with clear space around them, typically cost less to service. Units in tight spaces, on roofs, or in attics and crawl spaces may add $40-$70 to the labor cost due to extra time needed for access.
Rated Voltage
Run capacitors and start capacitors feature various working voltages, and the voltage and price are often correlated. Modern residential heating and air conditioning systems typically feature run capacitor voltage ratings of 370V or 440V and start capacitor voltage ranges of 125V, 250V, or 330V. We found the voltage rating to impact AC capacitor pricing by an average of $20 to $95. If you’re curious about the specific voltage ranges of the AC capacitors in your HVAC system, ask your HVAC technician to include this information on your service report from your annual HVAC system inspection.
Product Quality
AC capacitors come in different quality levels, much like car parts. Basic models might last 1–2 years and cost less upfront, while premium capacitors often last 5+ years and come with better warranties. The price difference between basic and premium capacitors ranges from $20 to $160, but investing in quality often saves money and prevents downtime long-term.
Professional vs. DIY AC Capacitor Replacement
Being a professional HVAC technician and an avid DIY enthusiast allows me to provide my clients with the best advice from both angles. If you’ve spent more than just a few minutes searching social media for AC troubleshooting help to restore your cold air, odds are you’ve encountered at least one person recommending replacing your AC capacitor.
As someone who pays extra attention to HVAC-related posts in social media groups, I can tell you that DIY capacitor replacement is a hot-button topic. While replacing and connecting an AC capacitor is relatively simple, taking on this project yourself without the proper tools and experience can result in serious injury or thousands of dollars in damages.
Doing AC Capacitor Replacement Yourself
I know how tempting it is to save money by going DIY, but please read this section carefully if you’re considering replacing a capacitor in your AC unit’s electrical system. A capacitor stores energy. That’s kind of its thing. Before you remove a screw from your HVAC unit service panel, your primary goal is to ensure that the stored electrical energy doesn’t travel through your body. I’ve personally had a nice jolt from an 80uF run capacitor as I was explaining proper discharge and safety techniques to a client, and you don’t want to experience this for yourself.
Disconnecting the high-voltage power supply to your HVAC unit does not remove the risk of serious injury from shock hazards. AC capacitors store energy even when the appliance isn’t powered. If the capacitor is not discharged correctly (a screwdriver is not the proper tool), your body may become the path the energy travels. Never remove an appliance service panel unless you possess the appropriate test instruments, safety equipment, and experience to ensure the safety of yourself and your family.
Aside from safety issues, warranty and financial considerations affect your decision on whether to replace an AC capacitor yourself.
HVAC equipment manufacturers provide warranty coverage for your system dependent on specific terms and conditions. Typically, one of those conditions is that your system is neither installed, serviced, nor repaired by an individual who doesn’t possess proper certification. Similarly, suppose your HVAC system is under installation or repair labor warranty. In that case, very few HVAC companies will uphold warranty coverage if they become aware that you attempted repairs on your system.
The final consideration I offer is a simple yet widely overlooked question. Why did the AC capacitor fail to begin with? If you’re not confident answering this question, it could be financially disastrous for you in the upcoming weeks or months. Was it simply a cheaply made component? Is there a loose high-voltage connection somewhere in your HVAC system or electrical service panel? Is the compressor or fan motor connected to the capacitor you just replaced operating correctly?
A professional HVAC technician has the tools and experience to answer these questions and potentially avoid thousands of dollars in unnecessary repair costs down the road.
Hiring a Professional for AC Capacitor Replacement
AC capacitor replacement is not typically a planned-for and sought-after project such as a proactive furnace or air conditioner replacement. Most homeowners need to be made aware when their capacitors require replacement, leading to most capacitor replacements occurring during annual maintenance visits or demand service calls for noisy air conditioners.
The best way to ensure your system’s capacitors are in proper operating condition is to have your HVAC system inspected and maintained before each cooling and heating demand season.
Here’s an easy step-by-step list to get started choosing an HVAC pro:
- Find local experts near you: If you’re in the market for a top-tier HVAC contractor, here are our best HVAC companies.
- Get multiple quotes: Request information about annual maintenance plans. I encourage my clients to work with HVAC contractors that adhere to ENERGY STAR HVAC maintenance guidelines.
- Do some homework: Research prospective HVAC service providers online to verify they’re well established and have demonstrated a track record of excellent service.
- Verify licensing: Some states require special HVAC services licensing or certification. Review the rules for your location and make sure the company you hire is compliant.
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
So, Is AC Capacitor Replacement Worth It?
When your system’s AC capacitor degrades to the point where its measured capacitance is outside the acceptable range noted on the label (+/- 10% max), it’s time to replace it. Your HVAC technician should be able to show you the reading.
Additional telltale indicators include visible swelling, leaking fluid, excessive corrosion, or noisy compressor operation. Don’t be misled by the fact that your HVAC system appears to be functioning correctly. If the capacitance rating is below specification, failure to replace the AC capacitor shortly could result in internal damage or failure of the connected motor or compressor. Prolonging a minor repair could cost you thousands of dollars a few months from now.
Frequently Asked Questions About AC Capacitor Replacement
While replacing an AC capacitor might seem like a simple DIY task, we don’t recommend it for homeowners. Capacitors store electrical charges that can be dangerous even when the power is off. A mistake during replacement could lead to serious injury or damage other expensive components in your AC system.
Professional HVAC technicians have specialized tools to safely discharge capacitors and test the entire system to verify proper operation. They can also identify if the capacitor failure indicates other problems that need attention. The $100-$400 cost of professional replacement is far less than the potential costs of injury or system damage from DIY attempts.
If you’re concerned about costs, many HVAC companies offer maintenance plans that include capacitor testing and replacement when you need it.
Your AC might run with a failing capacitor, but it won’t work properly. You’ll likely notice problems like it taking longer to start up, higher energy bills from inefficient operation, strange humming or buzzing sounds, or it not cooling your home effectively.
Running your system with a bad capacitor can damage other components, potentially leading to expensive repairs. If you notice any of these signs, contact an HVAC contractor for an inspection.
Common signs of a failing AC capacitor include:
- The air conditioner taking several minutes to start after turning it on
- Humming or buzzing sounds from the outdoor unit
- The fan spinning slowly or not at all
- Your home taking longer to cool down
- Higher than usual electricity bills
- The AC unit shutting off unexpectedly
An HVAC technician can test the capacitor to confirm if it needs replacement. They’ll also check other components to make sure there aren’t additional problems.
Your AC system uses two main types of capacitors:
Start Capacitors: These provide the extra power boost needed to start your AC’s motors. Think of them like the starter in your car— they’re only active for a few seconds but essential for getting things moving.
Run Capacitors: These keep your AC running smoothly after it starts. They maintain the proper electrical flow to your system’s motors during operation. Most home AC units have this type.
Some systems use a dual-run capacitor, which combines the functions of two run capacitors into one unit.
